IT jobs now out of reach for core engg students

Hyderabad: IT jobs, which were earlier available for students from all streams, are now becoming a far-fetched dream for students studying core engineering courses.

Many companies visiting campuses for placements are willing to hire only those from computer science and allied branches.

There is said to be a change even in the pattern of the recruitment tests, as the candidates' in-depth knowledge of coding, database management, and website creation, among others, is being tested.

"Several companies, especially those offering above 10 lakh to 12 lakh per annum, are hiring only CSE and related branch students during placements. The problem is for other branches, neither are many core companies coming for placements nor are they eligible for IT jobs. They are forced to take up non-technical jobs or go for edu tech companies which are hiring people from different backgrounds for material preparation," said Sai Charan, a final-year mechanical student studying at one of the state universities in the city.

Another student, Nitin B, who is studying final-year ECE at one of the top colleges in the city, said that he accepted a job with 3.6 LPA in a core company as there is no other option. "I am happy that I get to work for a core company. But the problem is core companies that pay over 9 LPA are not even coming for placements this year. I would be happier if I manage to secure a job with at least over 7 LPA," he added.

Even training and placement officers confirmed the trend and said that companies are not willing to hire non-CSE students for IT jobs.

"This trend was noticed only recently. Many software companies do not want to hire civil, mechanical, or electrical graduates. In fact, while they used to recruit students by testing their aptitude, reasoning, and communication skills earlier, now it is more about their knowledge in coding and database management," said D Suman, training and placement officer from the University College of Engineering, Osmania University.